As a rare local to Boise that recently moved back after marrying into the military, I have many new and old favorite places to eat and things to do! I loved growing up here and am so happy to be back with my own family this time.

Where to eat:

Breakfast/Brunch – Fork, A’Tavola, Certified Kitchen, JanJou Patisserie, Goldsteins Bagels

Lunch – Wyld Child, Voodoo Brewery, Sids Garage, Tims Burgers, A’Tavola

Dinner – With kids: Percy, Baraboo, Wylder, Diablo and Sons Without kids: Avery, Percy, KIN

On a patio – Fork, Wyld Child, Diablo and Sons

For a nightcap (do people still say that?) – Thick as Thieves, Art Haus Bar

Out of town – Mesa, Peaceful Belly

For Coffee – Form and Function, Flying M, Slow by Slow, Cafe Nomad

For Sweets – Goodies, Fanci Freeze, The Still, Stellas

What to do:

Walk downtown. Downtown Boise feels very safe to walk around pretty much any time of day. Many shops to browse and good food.

Walk the Greenbelt. Park at Esther Simplot Park and walk across the bridge to the greenbelt. Walk down to Push and Pour coffee shop or get tacos at Rosa’s.

MK Nature Center. This is also along the greenbelt and is free to walk around! Great for good weather and with kids!

Discovery Center. If you’re stuck inside for weather this is a great stop for kids.

The Village: Meridian has a great walking mall with places to sit and eat or just hang out.

Camels Back Park is quintessential Boise. There is a great park for kids. You can walk up the stairs to get a great view of Boise. You can also walk to Hyde Park to get coffee or lunch.

Summer – Float the River. Catch a play at the outdoor Shakespeare Festival.

Parks: Discovery park, Stephen Guerber,